Source: European Parliament
1. The Commission is aware of the situation concerning the Rudozem-Xanthi Road section, which forms part of the trans-European transport network (TEN-T) comprehensive network and has addressed the situation with Greece. The timely development of this infrastructure is important for improving cross-border connectivity and is relevant in the context of the Schengen Borders Code. The Commission underlines the responsibility of the Member States concerned to ensure that infrastructure projects are delivered in line with their commitments under the TEN-T Regulation[1], which foresees the completion of the comprehensive network by 2050.
2. Delays in making this cross-border section operational may affect progress towards key policy goals, including the reduction of transport pressure on other corridors and improvements in road safety. While the Commission has not carried out a specific assessment of the economic or social impacts of this particular delay, well-functioning transport links are known to contribute to both regional development and the objectives of the EU’s Vision Zero strategy[2], which aims to eliminate road deaths by 2050.
3. The Commission encourages the competent national authorities to take the necessary steps to address the outstanding issues and ensure that this section of the TEN-T network becomes fully operational. Continued dialogue and coordination between the Member States concerned remain essential to achieve proper cross-border connectivity in line with the broader objectives of the TEN-T policy.